Labor Department Guidelines on AI Highlights Safety Potential, Risk

• The Labor Department has issued a guide for employers as they introduce artificial intelligence platforms into their workplaces.
• The guide notes that there is research that highlights the potential of AI systems to improve the health and safety of workers in certain high-risk industries, however, there is also data that shows AI monitoring and management tools may disincentivize practices that reduce on-the-job injuries. 
• The principles are the result of the Biden administration’s October 2023 executive order on AI technology that said it “should not be deployed in ways that undermine rights, worsen job quality, encourage undue worker surveillance, lessen market competition, introduce new health and safety risks, or cause harmful labor-force disruptions.”
• The guide notes that employers using AI and automated systems must continue to comply with the Occupational Safety and Health Act and relevant standards and regulations.
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Federal Suit Alleges Worker Fired for Raising Safety Concerns

• The Labor Department is suing manufacturer Red Lion Controls, claiming the firm unlawfully terminated a worker for raising safety concerns.
• According to the federal court filing, the employee, Frank Jaslow, was instructed to use a ladder to retrieve stock items. 
• Jaslow believed using a forklift would be safer, as it would be difficult to maintain three points of contact to ensure ladder safety. 
• Red Lion allegedly claimed the task could “easily” be done on a ladder. When the employee maintained their safety concerns, the company fired him.
• An OSHA investigation concluded the York, Pennsylvania-based subsidiary of HMS Networks AB breached federal whistleblower protections.
• The suit seeks to reinstate Jaslow and secure back wages along with additional damages.
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